SpaceX launches all-civilian crew for first private spacewalk

• Recently, SpaceX launched the Polaris Dawn mission with a four-member civilian crew set for the first spacewalk by non-professional astronauts.
• It will last about five days in an orbit ranging from 190 km to 1,400 km from Earth.

Mission Highlights

• First Spacewalk by Non-Professionals
  • The crew will perform the first spacewalk composed entirely of non-professional astronauts, equipped with SpaceX’s new extravehicular activity (EVA) suits.
  • These suits feature heads-up displays, helmet cameras, and advanced joint mobility systems.
• Zero-Gravity Experience
  • Applause erupted at mission control as the Dragon capsule separated from the main engine, and the crew experienced zero-gravity moments later.
• Radiation Belt
  • On the first day, the craft will enter the Van Allen radiation belt, which poses potential health risks due to high-energy charged particles.

The Polaris Program

• Polaris Dawn is the first mission in Isaacman’s Polaris program, which includes future Crew Dragon and Starship flights.
• The mission will also contribute to scientific research on cosmic radiation and the effects of space on the human body.
• Launch Delays: The mission faced delays due to technical issues with the launch tower and weather constraints.

Prelims Takeaway

• The Polaris Program
• SpaceX
• Van Allen radiation belts